Description
Luffa Bathrrom Sponge
Grow your own durable, natural sponges for use in bathing, and as a nonmarring scrubber in the kitchen. Sponges form inside gourds produced on vigorous, easy-to-grow vining plants that reach 10' to 15' tall.
When and where to plant
Grow in full sun in rich, loose soil amended with organic matter. For earlier crop, start seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Sow 2 seeds per pot, using a lightweight soil mix. Place seedlings in full sun to avoid stretching. Harden a few days before transplanting to the garden. May also sow directly in the garden after all danger of frost.
Care
Provide tall sturdy support. Water deeply every 7 days if rainfall isn't adequate. Use furrows or a drip system to prevent rotting of gourds. Fertilize when first flowers form.
Harvesting
Can be eaten like summer squash, if picked when about 6" long and still tender, for sponges, harvest in fall when skin turns yellow-brown and paper thin. Cure for 2 to 3 weeks in warm, airy spot. To remove sponges, soak for 1/2 hour in tepid water and peel off skin. Remove seeds and rinse sponges before use.
- Spacing Between Seeds: 4-6"
- Spacing of Groups (Hill): 4-6'
- Days to Germination: 7-14
- Days to Maturity: 55-70
